The PR1 RMR - Salt Marshes is a circular hiking trail with a low level of difficulty, covering approximately 3.5 km and taking an estimated 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. The trail starts and ends at the Salt Marshes of Rio Maior, located at the southern tip of the Natural Park of Serras de Aire e Candeeiros, about 3 kilometers from the town of Rio Maior. This trail offers a diverse landscape in terms of land use, including orchards, vineyards, shrubland, pine forests, eucalyptus groves, and agricultural areas. One of the highlights of the trail is the village of Fonte da Bica, on the northern slope of the Salt Marshes, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the fertile valley where the Salt Marshes originate. This landscape is characterized by countless colors and textures, creating a unique and appealing scenery. The Salt Marshes of Rio Maior are classified as a Public Interest Property and constitute a popular tourist destination within the Natural Park of Serras de Aire e Candeeiros. These salt marshes are the only ones in Portugal not located near the sea and are fully operational, making them unique in all of Europe. The salt is extracted through a traditional process, from harvesting to packaging.
Start / End: Salt Marshes of Rio Maior. Recommended season: All year round.
Type: Short Trail (PR) Loop
Distance: 3.5
Difficulty: Easy (level 2)
GPS Coordinates: 39°21'48.7"N 8°56'44.9"W